ESSD Recognized as Health Champion

ESSD Recognized as Health Champion

Posted on 07/12/2018

ESSD first district in nation to receive Health Champion designation

May 18, 2018 – The Excelsior Springs School District is leading the way, becoming first school district in the nation to become a Health Champion Designee from the American Diabetes Association. To receive the distinction the district had to meet healthy living criteria in three different areas: Nutrition and Weight Management, physical activity, and organizational well-being.

Area Executive Director of the American Diabetes Association Charles Brown II visited the district office on Wednesday, May 9 to give the designation, and praised the district for its dedication to health and wellness.

“Our vision at the American Diabetes Association is to prevent and cure diabetes and improve the lives of all of those affected by diabetes,” Brown said. “One of the biggest components of that is education and awareness around diabetes and pre-diabetes.”

Nationwide, there are over 84 million people who are pre-diabetic, and 90 percent of them have no idea that they are pre-diabetic. Currently, one person out of every 11 in the United States are affected by diabetes.

“So it’s something we are trying to combat and fight against, and two, we are trying to prevent that second tidal wave—and epidemic—won’t hit,” Brown said. One of the ways the American Diabetes Associations does that, Brown explained, is through partnering with other organizations, such as the school district.

“So, we have these very hard-to-get awards, that have a lengthy application, and you have been selected as a Health Champion, a nationally recognized Health Champion,” Brown added. “Congratulations. It’s a very hard award to get.”

There are recognition components that come with that designation. As a Health Champion, ESSD will be a role model to other school districts nationwide, and to students, as well.

“The more we can get to kids, and influence them to have healthier lifestyles, the better,” Brown said. “I can’t thank you enough for what you are doing to help our cause in the fight against diabetes.”

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jaret Tomlinson thanked Director of Student Services Terri Combs, whose work toward getting the Health Champion designation was instrumental. He then praised the school district for being the first public school district to receive the honor.